Tell us why you became a teacher

Mark’s why is the thousands of students he’s taught, their families, and his coworkers. He loves us all and loves what he does. I often refer to him as St. Mark, because witnessing the joy, boundless humor, humbleness, self sacrifice, and love he pours into the students and the school community is beyond measure and impacts all of us in the most profound way.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Every day teaching with Mark is memorable. He brings joy and levity to the middle school. One circumstance sticks out in my mind. A former students of Mark ended up in prison and reached out to Mark. Without hesitation, Mark talked to the student on the phone, and immediately began the process of getting cleared to go visit his former students in prison. It amazed me. Mark’s love and belief in all of us has no limits. He exemplifies love in his actions and choices.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I hope Mark would use the $25,000 is spoil his beautiful wife, Cathy, his kids, and grandkids. Hopefully, take a trip back to his Irish motherland.